MELATONINE

The tests are carried out in collaboration with the diagnostic laboratory MEDICARE Plus.

The test detects the melatonine hormone in your saliva.

1. General information about melatonine

Melatonine, also known as 'the good hormone', has a strong antioxidant function. Since it is soluble in both water and fats, it easily passes through cellular membranes and enters cellular organelles (mitochondria). As an antioxidant, it is present in all parts of the brain. It is the only antioxidant which enters the mitochondria, where cellular breathing occurs. There, it neutralizes free radicals as soon as they are created.

Melatonine is crucial for the functioning of our immune systems and protecting DNA from oxidation damage. Melatonine is also part of the sleep/wakefulness cycle, causing sleepiness and lowering body temperature. Melatonine levels usually increase around mid and late evening, peaking during the night, around 2 and 4 a.m. Melatonine levels are lower in the morning than when we went to sleep.

2. When should you have your melatonine levels tested?

It is advisable to perform a melatonine test when you are suffering from insomnia, morning exhaustion, tendencies towards depression and anxiety,..

3. How is the test carried out? The melatonine test is based on a saliva sample.

In the case of hormonal cream use, it is recommended that at least 36 hours pass between your last use and the sampling. The suggested sampling time is right before sleep, during sleep and in the morning. Three samples are required.